Castilla y Leon
Castilla y Leon sits in the north-west of Spain. It is a landlocked region and shares a border with Portugal to the west as well 10 other regions.
It has a population of about 2.5 million. The main cities of the region include Valladolid with a population of 300,000. Burgos with 180,000 people. Salamanca which has 147,000 people. Leon with 128,000 and Palencia with 80,000.
Salamanca is renowned for its orange tinged sandstone used in the old town which create a beautiful orange colour in the sunlight. The Plaza Mayor, Old town and Cathedral are all must see parts of Salamanca.
Segovia is renowned for its Roman ruins. The aqueduct is the most iconic image of the city. The Alcazar of Segovia is another amazing location.
The region has many amazing historical and natural attractions, and you could easily spend a very long time here. There are plenty of amazing places to eat, and prices are significantly lower than in the largest cities of Spain. You have to try roast suckling pig and lamb, which is a regional favourite.
If you are planning a visit to the region our 7 day Itinerary for Castilla y Leon page has useful advice and suggestions to help make the most of your trip.
Towns in the region
Astorga – offers Roman heritage, a magnificent cathedral, remarkable architecture and excellent food
Ávila – is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval walls, religious heritage and beautiful old town
Benavente – combines medieval monuments, attractive squares, excellent local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere
Burgos – One of Spain’s Most Historic Cities
Las Médulas – a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with dramatic red cliffs, chestnut forests and scenic walking trails
Leon – combines rich history, impressive architecture, excellent food and vibrant local traditions
Miranda de Ebro – Sits in the North East of the region with a population of just over 35,000
Palencia – offers beautiful churches, elegant plazas, peaceful parks and excellent local cuisine
Pedraza – is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets and impressive stone walls
Penafiel – a picturesque destination is best known for its magnificent 10th-century castle
Ponferrada – combines a rich medieval heritage with beautiful natural scenery
Sahagún – a rich cultural and architectural heritage shaped by Romanesque and Mudéjar styles
Salamanca – a beautiful and historic city famous for its yellowish stone
Segovia – A town rich in Roman history and other historical features and traditions
Soria – combines medieval streets, Romanesque churches, peaceful parks and a rich literary heritage
Valladolid – Valladolid is one of Spain’s most rewarding destinations to explore
Villafranca del Bierzo – blends medieval architecture, religious heritage, mountain scenery and excellent local food
Zamora – is famous for its remarkable collection of Romanesque churches, medieval streets and impressive castle
Getting to the region
If flying to Spain, your best bet is probably to fly to Madrid and use the high-speed rail to travel to the region. Buy Tickets
Valladolid is about a 1 hour 10 minute high-speed rail trip from Madrid.
Salamanca is about 1 hour 40 minutes by train.
Leon is about a 2 hour 15 minute train trip from Madrid.
Segovia is between a 46 minute to 1 hour 10 minute train trip from Madrid.
If driving, Valladolid is about a 2 hour 15 minute drive from Madrid.
Salamanca is about a 2 hour 20 minute drive from Madrid.
Leon is about a 3 hour 45 minute drive.
Segovia is about a 1 hour 10 minute drive.